Supplementation of dairy cattle with omega fatty acids on reproductive and productive function
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.19136/era.a13nVI.5101Keywords:
Insemination, conception, open days, lactationAbstract
Dairy milk production is considered an unsustainable activity, where increased production is associated with reduced reproductive efficiency. The objective was to determine the effect of omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fatty acid supplementation (O3,6,9FAS) on reproductive and productive variables. Sixty multiparous dairy cows from an intensive production system were divided into a control group (n = 30) that received a total mixed ration (TMR) and a treatment group (n = 30) that received a TMR more 150 g daily of O3,6,9FAS for 150 days. A fixed-time artificial insemination protocol and transrectal ultrasonography at 31 days were used. Statistical analysis included ANOVA, Mann-Whitney U test, and correlations between response variables. The results indicated differences (p < 0.05) between the groups for the variables services per conception, days open, and embryo length. No differences (p ≥ 0.05) were detected for milk production and corpus luteum diameter. A significant correlation (p < 0.05) was found among the reproductive variables considered, with the exception of the corpus luteum, which did not correlate (p ≥ 0.05) with the others. Lipid supplementation modifies reproductive indicators without altering productive performance. Reducing open days and services per conception promotes herd sustainability by decreasing production costs. Therefore, O3,6,9FAS is recommended in the diet to optimize fertility and reduce non-productive days in intensive dairy systems.
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